Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

"His group of men were flying over the Hump (the Himalayas) daily in a bomber. During one of their missions, they were fired upon by the Japanese, killing both pilots and damaging the engines. All others including Billett were injured. Somehow he not only flew the plane to safety and landed it, but managed to drag the surviving crew members out one by one to safety. The plane was leaking fuel and beginning to burn."

Period:

Korean War (1950-1953)

Rank:

Master Sergeant

Awarded on:

May 28th, 1951

"For heroism involving voluntary risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy, on 16 December 1950. On this date a C-54 which was returning from Korea with 16,800 pounds of demolition bombs aboard, crashed at the end of the runway and nosed up in a steep ravine. When Sergeant Billett and a companion arrived at the scene of the crash, they observed that the number four engine was still running and that gasoline was pouring from a ruptured fuel tank near the exhaust of the engine. Realizing the imminent danger of an explosion and fire and ignoring the hazards involved, Sergeant Billett removed an inspection plate from the engine and helped his companion enter the hole to shut off the fuel supply to the engine. Through his prompt and courageous action Sergeant Billett prevented a possible explosion of the bomb load which would have resulted in great property damage and loss of life. Sergeant Billett's heroic performance in an extremely perilous situation was in keeping with the highest traditions of the service, and reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces, and the United States Air Force."

Headquarters, Far East Air Forces, General Orders No. 245

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)